As well as the much-needed restoration of the public Glasshouses, the project will see the development of state-of-the-art research Glasshouses, the construction of an innovative Plant Health Centre and an efficient Energy Centre. A new public Glasshouse is also set to become the welcome reception of a visitor experience.

With stark data from a structural report revealing the true extent and urgency of remedial works required in the public Glasshouses, the intricate work of decanting and protecting plants is already under way.

Behind doors closed to visitors by Covid-19 restrictions at the end of last year, RBGE’s dedicated horticulturists are employing all the latest techniques in tandem with traditional best practice to carefully lift specimens from their established beds and transfer them to temporary homes. The outcome will guarantee the future of the A-Listed buildings, improve the visitor experience and working conditions.

Regius Keeper Simon Milne MBE, who has led the five-year drive to achieve this most significant project of the Garden’s 351-year history, explained: “With initial funding in place, and in light of data from the structural survey, it is right that restorative work on the public Glasshouses and replacement of the Research Houses should be addressed as a matter of urgency.

“There is no quick fix. The Edinburgh Biomes is an initiative of enormous significance and, from now it brings seven years of incredibly hard and exciting work, changes to the way we engage with all our stakeholders and flexibility in how we operate. There is a requirement for an immense programme of public engagement and unapparelled fundraising to reach our ultimate goal.

“The living plant collection, at the core of the work of the Garden, is of global importance in addressing the biodiversity crisis. Here, we hold in care species endangered and even extinct in their natural habitats – many of which are yet to be fully scientifically described and formally named. Intrinsic to this is the growing imperative for greater public engagement, bringing people of all ages and outlooks along on the unavoidable and inspirational journey to protect the planet for future generations.”

Voicing her support, environment and climate change secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “Through the Low Carbon Fund, we have been able to fulfil a Programme for Government commitment to support the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh in its transition to net zero and to secure its status as a national and international centre for science, horticulture and learning. By improving the energy efficiency of the Garden’s iconic Glasshouses and the construction of the new facilities, not only will it be an important step towards a low carbon future but will also support good, green jobs and preservation of the National living plant collection.”

Commenting on the significance of the Edinburgh Biomes initiative, Hector MacAulay, Balfour Beatty managing director for Scotland and Ireland, said: “We are delighted to be partnered with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh to deliver this most significant and historic project. Balfour Beatty is fully committed to playing its part in safeguarding the plant collection for the future and delivering the new world-class facilities which are of international importance in terms of biodiversity conservation.”